Stress fracture at the base of the fifth metatarsal

The fifth metatarsal runs along the outer side of the foot to the little toe. Pain is often focused near its base, and may increase with walking, running, hopping, or pressing the area. Swelling or tenderness can occur, while early imaging may not always show the injury. A clinician may combine an examination with repeat imaging or advanced imaging when needed. Foot pain can have other causes, so location alone does not confirm a fracture.

Pause running and impact exercise. Arrange an orthopaedic or sports-medicine assessment, particularly if walking is painful. Until assessed, use supportive footwear and avoid testing the spot by hopping. Your clinician may recommend a stiff shoe, walking boot, crutches, or another level of protection, depending on tenderness and imaging. Return to activity should be gradual, guided by pain, examination, and healing. Factors such as training changes, footwear, bone health, and Vitamin D Deficiency may be reviewed.

Seek prompt medical care if you cannot bear weight, pain is worsening despite rest, swelling is marked, or the foot looks misshapen. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if the toes become cold, pale, blue, numb, or unusually weak. Do not continue running through focal bone tenderness: repeated loading can enlarge an injury and delay recovery.

Ask which part of the fifth metatarsal is involved, whether you need a boot or crutches, and what activity is safe while it heals. You can also ask whether imaging should be repeated, whether bone-health testing is useful, and how to progress from walking to running.